Experienced Iowa Auto Insurance Lawyers Available to Help 24/7
If you need to file an auto insurance claim but are unsure of how to get started or are encountering problems, contact the experienced and compassionate Des Moines auto insurance claim lawyers at LaMarca Law Group, P.C. today.
While many people buy auto insurance to protect themselves from losses in the event that they are in an accident, or their car is damaged in a non-collision related incident, the reality is that insurance companies are loathe to pay out claims.
At LaMarca Law Group, P.C., we believe that insurance companies need to be held responsible for their liabilities, and must adhere to the terms of the contracts they enter into with consumers. We have auto insurance claim attorneys near you who will help you face the insurance companies and get the settlement that your claim deserves.
Having a difficult time getting your auto insurance claim paid in Des Moines, Iowa? Give our firm a call at (515) 705-0233 to schedule a free initial consultation.
Types of Auto Insurance Cases We Handle
In Iowa, as in the majority of the states, drivers are required to have auto insurance before getting behind the wheel.
There are many reasons someone might need to file an auto insurance claim, including:
Sustaining damage to your car during inclement weather
Sustaining damage to your car due to vandalism or a break-in
Losing your car to theft
Why Do You Need a Des Moines Auto Insurance Lawyer?
Dealing with insurance companies and their representatives can add extra frustration during an already trying time. Insurance agents are primarily interested in protecting their bottom line, not their customers, and will often try to lowball your claims using a variety of tactics.
For example, if you were injured in a car accident, they may try to avoid paying by claiming that your injuries were not the result of your accident or not as serious as you claim. Similarly, if your car was damaged in a storm, the insurance company may try and say that your policy does not cover such disasters. Des Moines attorneys for car insurance claims can help you fight these tactics.
With an insurance attorney on your side, you can ensure that the insurance adjusters don’t get away with these tricks. Your lawyer will be able to evaluate your policy and understand exactly what you should be covered for. They will also be able to investigate your accident to determine how much money your insurance company should offer you.
An Des Moines auto insurance attorney can help you fill out and file all the necessary paperwork to ensure that no mistakes are made. They can then negotiate with the agents and, if necessary, take the company to court if your claim is wrongfully minimized or denied. No matter what point you are in the insurance claims process, a lawyer is a vital resource to have on your side.
Common Tactics Used by Insurance Companies to Deny Claims
Insurance companies are businesses focused on minimizing their payouts. They often use various tactics to reduce or deny the compensation you deserve. Some of the most common strategies include:
Delay Tactics: Insurance companies may intentionally drag out the claims process to frustrate claimants. This tactic is meant to make you give up or accept a lower offer just to move on.
Lowball Offers: After an accident, insurance companies may offer you a settlement that’s much lower than what your claim is worth. This is often the first offer they make, hoping you’ll accept it quickly.
Policy Exclusions: Insurers may claim that your policy doesn’t cover certain damages or situations, such as specific types of accidents or weather-related incidents. They’ll often try to argue exclusions in fine print.
Blame Shifting: Insurers may try to place blame on you, the driver, even when the accident wasn’t your fault. They might claim that your injuries were pre-existing or that the accident wasn’t as severe as you say.
These tactics can make it harder to get a fair payout. That’s why having a lawyer on your side is crucial to fight for your rights.
The Importance of Documentation in Auto Insurance Claims
Having proper documentation is key to the success of your insurance claim. Without it, your chances of receiving a fair settlement are slim. Here’s what you should keep track of:
Photos: Take pictures of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries. These can serve as crucial evidence to back up your claim.
Police Reports: Always file a police report after an accident. It provides an official account of the incident and can be critical in proving who was at fault.
Medical Records: If you’ve been injured, keep detailed records of doctor visits, treatments, and bills. This will help demonstrate the extent of your injuries and the costs involved.
The more thorough your documentation, the stronger your case will be.
What to Do Immediately After a Car Accident
How you handle the situation right after an accident can affect your claim. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to follow:
Ensure Safety: Move to a safe location, if possible, and check for injuries. Call 911 if needed.
Document the Scene: Take photos of the vehicles, the surrounding area, and any visible damages.
Exchange Information: Get the names, contact details, and insurance info of the other driver(s).
File a Police Report: Always contact the police to file an official report, even if the accident seems minor.
Notify Your Insurance Company: Report the accident to your insurer as soon as possible, providing all relevant details.
Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, see a doctor. Some injuries don’t show up immediately.
By following these steps, you’ll set yourself up for a stronger claim and help avoid complications down the line.
How LaMarca Law Group, P.C. Can Help
Every car insurance policy does not cover all of these potential situations, so you may need an attorney that is familiar with car insurance claims to help you figure out what should be covered under your policy. At LaMarca Law Group, P.C., we have years of experience reading insurance policies and representing clients seeking to be compensated by insurance companies. As such, we know how to fight for our clients and get their car insurance claims paid.
We can assist you whether you are looking to:
File an initial claim for personal injury or property damage
Appeal the denial of claim, or a partial payment of a claim
Negotiate a fair settlement
Take your case to trial
Don’t fall victim to insurance company tricks. LaMarca Law Group, P.C. can ensure that you get every cent you are rightfully owed from your car insurance claim.
Put Over 100 Years of Experience on Your Side Today
At LaMarca Law Group, P.C., we are dedicated to helping clients get the compensation to which they may fairly be owed. Over the years, we have collected millions of dollars for our clients, and you can trust that we won’t stop fighting until we get you the compensation you deserve.
Our years of hard work and dedication serving clients has earned us the esteem of clients and the respect of adversaries. We have won many awards and accolades over the years, including being repeatedly named among the “Best Law Firms” and “Best Lawyers in America.”
We have earned these awards due to our fierce advocacy for and dedication to our clients. We treat each client as an individual, paying special attention to the unique details of their case to ensure nothing important is left forgotten. With us on your side, you can relax knowing that you will soon get the money you need.
At LaMarca Law Group, P.C., we believe that insurance companies should fulfill the obligations of their contracts, and when they fail to do so, they must be held liable.
FAQ About Auto Insurance Claims in Des Moines, Iowa
How do I know if my auto insurance claim is being unfairly delayed? Insurance companies may delay a claim for various reasons, such as requesting unnecessary information or dragging out the investigation. If your claim is taking longer than expected without clear communication, it could be a tactic to avoid paying. Contacting an experienced attorney can help ensure that your claim is processed in a timely manner.
What should I do if the insurance company offers me a settlement that seems too low? It’s common for insurance companies to offer lowball settlements in an attempt to close the case quickly and cheaply. If the offer doesn’t seem to cover your damages or medical expenses, it’s important to consult with an attorney. They can help you negotiate for a fairer settlement or, if necessary, take legal action.
Can I file an auto insurance claim if the accident was partly my fault? Yes, Iowa follows a comparative fault rule, meaning that you may still be entitled to compensation even if you are partially at fault for the accident. Your settlement will be reduced based on your percentage of fault, but you can still receive compensation for your damages. A lawyer can help determine how much you may be entitled to under the circumstances.
What types of damages can I include in my auto insurance claim? You can include damages to your vehicle, medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering in your claim. If you were injured, the insurance company should also cover the cost of your treatment, rehabilitation, and any future medical expenses related to your injuries.
How long do I have to file a car insurance claim in Iowa? In Iowa, you typically have two years to file a personal injury claim after an accident. However, it’s best to notify your insurance company as soon as possible. Delays in reporting may complicate the process, so it’s recommended to act promptly.
Can a lawyer help if my insurance claim is denied? Yes. If your claim is denied or if the settlement is less than what you’re owed, an experienced insurance claims lawyer can review the details of your policy, negotiate with the insurance company, or take legal action to fight for the compensation you deserve.
Is your insurance company refusing to pay or delaying your claim? Contact the experienced attorneys at LaMarca Law Group, P.C. in Des Moines at (515) 705-0233 for a free consultation today.
